Nitobe Memorial Garden (Other)

This authentic Japanese garden designed according to the principles of Zen and Shintoism was created to honour Dr. Inazo Nitobe, a prominent Japanese scholar and diplomat. The garden’s elements, including rocks, plants, lanterns, waterfalls, and bridges, were meticulously arranged to instill a feeling of tranquility and harmony with nature. The garden's design combines the native West Coast trees, such as cedar and fir, with the traditional Japanese plants, including maple, cherry trees, azaleas, and irises. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the treed paths or meditate by a calm pond filled with shimmering Koi fish.

Additional Information

Hours of Operation

For March 21-22 and 28-29, the garden is open 9am to 5pm. A gatekeeper will be present and a fee will be charged. For weekdays during March, Nitobe Memorial Garden will be open from 10am to 2pm and admission is by donation.

From April 1, 2009 to October 31, 2009, the garden is open from 9am to 5pm every day.

From November 1, 2009 to December 23, 2009, Nitobe Memorial Garden will be open on non-holiday weekdays from 10am to 2:00pm (gates locked at 2:30). Nitobe Memorial Garden will be closed from December 24 to January 1 and reopening on January 2 with its regular non-holiday weekday schedule. It will also be closed during inclement weather. Admission is by donation in the off-season.

Admission Fees

Entrance fees are in effect on March 21-22, March 28-29, and from April 1, 2009 to October 31, 2009. All prices include GST.

User Reviews

Your Rating

Your Review

Title

Review

Name

Submitted by yas on October 27, 2009

This is a nice place, and it does induce a feeling of calm. There is something about the way the garden is constructed that makes you feel more relaxed and at peace. However, I think that the $6 admission is too much. The garden is really quite small, and there is not a lot to see. When I visited in the fall of 2009, the tea house was closed and it looked like it had been for a long time. It took me about 15 minutes to walk the whole garden, at a very slow pace. I would recommend the UBC Botanical Gardens instead of Nitobe Memorial. The admission cost is a bit more, but it is a lot larger and offers a great educational experience.